Bill could limit bake sales in schools

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

Don’t touch my brownies!

A child-nutrition bill on its way to President Barack Obama — and championed by the first lady — gives the government power to limit school bake sales and other fundraisers that health advocates say sometimes replace wholesome meals in the lunchroom.

Republicans, notably Sarah Palin, and public-school organizations decry the bill as an unnecessary intrusion on a common practice often used to raise money.

The legislation, part of first lady Michelle Obama’s campaign to stem childhood obesity, provides more meals at school for needy kids, including dinner, and directs the Agriculture Department to write guidelines to make those meals more healthful.

The legislation would apply to all foods sold in schools during regular class hours, including in the cafeteria line, vending machines and at fundraisers.

It wouldn’t apply to after-hours events or concession stands at sports events.

Public-health groups pushed for the language on fundraisers, which encourages the secretary of Agriculture to allow them only if they are infrequent.

Margo Wootan of the Center for Science in the Public Interest says the bill is aimed at curbing daily or weekly bake sales or pizza fundraisers that become a regular part of kids’ lunchtime routines.

She says selling junk food can easily be substituted with nonfood fundraisers.